The celebration of the profession of research administration and the 40th anniversary of SRA International present a good opportunity to examine the origins of the profession and how it has evolved from one of service to leadership. Currently, and for the foreseeable future, research administration offices need to balance both of these dimensions. Additionally, we need to focus on the development of relationships and to be mindful of the responsibilities that we hold. As research administrators we must serve as a resource to our researchers. At the same time, we must provide the leadership required to allow us to fulfill this servant function without impeding the advancement of research.